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France Line-up v England

France’s expected shape courtesy of Zonal Marking.

Nasri is likely to float inside and wont offer much natural linear width. Ribery will come inside in a direct way, running at goal from the left. However should the wingers switch flanks periodically then Ribery’s role would change to that of an out and out winger with Nasri providing link up. The lack of orthodox wingers running vertically plays into England’s hands as Hodgson’s rigid two banks of four could see France’s build up play get congested in front of the penalty area. Providing they do not lapse in concentration like ROI last night the France could find it extremely difficult to penetrate. It is paramount to have effective out balls too, which AOC and Wellbeck could potentially be, along with Ashley Young on the break which would stretch France on the counterattack where there will be plenty of space if their possession football causes them to over-commit.

France are a skilful unit but if England are disciplined, which they are expected to be, then they can contain them, and the staring of Oxlade-Chamberlain should provide some excitement going forward too.